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Zelenskyy signs law restoring power to anti-corruption agencies

Ukrainian president Zelenskyy has restored power to NABU and SAP, reversing a controversial decision.

July 31, 2025 at 10:23 AM

Zelenskyy signs law restoring power to anti-corruption bodies

Ukrainian parliament and president reverse decision on controversial anti-corruption bill.

Zelenskyy restores independence to anti-corruption bodies

After considerable debate, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signed a law restoring power to the National Anti-Corruption Bureau (NABU) and the Special Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAP). This reversal comes after lawmakers previously stripped these bodies of their independence, leading to significant backlash. Many legislators now face investigations by NABU, with 71 current and former MPs charged with corruption since 2022. Some politicians, including former Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko, argued against the restoration, claiming it undermines Ukraine's sovereignty and allowing foreign influence in domestic governance.

Key Takeaways

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Legislation to restore NABU and SAP independence signed by Zelenskyy

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71 MPs face corruption charges amidst ongoing investigations

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Tymoshenko voices concerns over foreign pressure on governance

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Restoration seen as a necessity for Ukraine's integrity

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The debate reflects tensions between sovereignty and accountability

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Zelenskyy's decision follows backlash against previous legislation

"This bill, the president submitted under colossal pressure, is not about NABU and SAP, and not about the fight against corruption."

Tymoshenko argues that restoring independence to anti-corruption bodies undermines Ukraine’s sovereignty.

"I don’t care who takes away our sovereignty, East or West."

Tymoshenko emphasizes her stance against foreign interference in Ukrainian governance.

"NABU and SAP are organs of political pressure on Ukraine’s government from outside."

This statement by Tymoshenko illustrates the perception of anti-corruption agencies as tools of foreign influence.

"Last week, Zelenskyy hastily signed the disputed bill, claiming both NABU and SAP were not effective enough."

This quote reflects Zelenskyy's justification for the initial stripping of power from these agencies.

This legislative reversal highlights a deeper tension within Ukrainian politics—a struggle between maintaining sovereignty and addressing systemic corruption. Some MPs face investigations that expose a clear conflict of interest. The restoration of NABU and SAP may be seen as a necessary step towards genuine reform; however, the debate reveals the complexities of navigating external pressures from both the West and Russia. The criticisms from figures like Tymoshenko suggest the balancing act of combatting corruption without compromising Ukraine’s independence will remain a contentious issue.